Sunflowers

Plant Science 211, Fall 2010
North Dakota State University

Two types of Commercial Sunflower Seeds


Confectionery seeds	Oilseed

Confectionery Seeds

Confectionery seeds are large black and white seeds. These seeds are non-oil based seeds and can be roasted, salted or unsalted and sold for snacks. These seeds can also be processed and made into an alternative peanut butter. Confectionery seeds are also commonly seen on salads. These seeds are also a favorite to birds and provide many nutrients they may need.

Oilseed

Oilseeds are small seeds that are black and high in oil content that is processed into sunflower oil and sunflower meal, which is for animal feed.

One of the main purposes of oilseed is for cooking. Oilseeds can be processed into oil that is light in color and has a neutral taste. Sunflower oil is one of the healthiest cooking oils; it is low in saturated fats, and has more vitamin E than any other vegetable oils available. Another reason for this oil to be ideal for cooking is its ability to withstand high temperatures.

Oilseeds have now also been made into biodiesel. Biodiesel is a vegetable-oil based fuel used for running many vehicles, including farming equipment. Biodiesel has many advantages including that is burns 75% cleaner than petroleum based diesel. Biodiesel requires no engine modification to be used, and it is highly lubricate so this reduced the wearing down on engine parts.